The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh is closing all branches to visitors in response to Allegheny County’s newly imposed stay-at-home advisory to thwart the spread of the coronavirus.

In a statement Wednesday night, Carnegie Library officials described the decision, effective immediately, as a “preventive measure” while covid-19 cases continue to climb across the region.

“There have been no documented reports of any patron or staff who have been exposed to covid-19,” officials said in a statement provided by Carnegie Library spokeswoman Suzanne Thinnes. “However, the health and safety of our patrons is of the utmost importance.”

Earlier in the day, Allegheny County reported a record-high daily number of 620 new cases, bringing the county’s total to more than 21,400. The county also saw an increase of 37 new hospitalizations for covid-19 patients, growing from 318 to 355 on Wednesday.

The library system’s visitation lockdown applies to all 17 of the Carnegie Library’s locations, including ones in the North Side, South Side, Beechview, Carrick, West End, Sheraden, East Liberty, Hill District, Homewood, Lawrenceville and the main branch in the city’s Oakland neighborhood.

Two branches — Mt. Washington and Downtown Pittsburgh — already have been closed for construction. In-person services will be halted at the remaining locations indefinitely.

Virtual and curbside service — including digital content, book returns, outdoor WiFi and printing — still will be available.

Patrons also can connect with library staff seven days a week through CLP’s website, through text messages (412-775-3900) or by phone (412-622-3114).

For more information, go to carnegielibrary.org/.

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